In this episode, Steph speaks with multi-award winner, Richard Brigman OBE, Founder of Warren Services, and his son Will, Managing Director of the family-run business. 

The father-son duo, based in Norfolk, talk about the evolution and impact of apprenticeships in the engineering sector. 

They discuss the history of their SME contract manufacturing business and their dedication to training young talent and creating a talent pipeline.

They share their innovative approach to engaging students and explain how they’ve created a long-standing relationship with local schools and the council. 

Plus, they reveal the personal story behind their commitment to overcoming barriers and fostering a skilled workforce.

00:00 Introduction and Welcome

00:22 Founding the Business: A Family Affair

01:59 Challenges and Evolution of Apprenticeships

02:59 Engaging the Next Generation

08:30 Overcoming Dyslexia and Personal Challenges

10:42 Building Strong Community and Educational Partnerships

17:02 Advice for Businesses and Future Workforce Development

22:30 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Get in touch with your feedback and ideas at [email protected]

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In this episode of Steph on Skills powered by Enginuity, Steph meets Paul and Hannah Linden, a father-daughter duo working together for the Red Bull Formula One Team. 

With over two decades of experience in engineering, Paul manages the development of the 2026 race engine – or power train – making him the man who could make or break the team’s success next season. 

Having recently completed her apprenticeship, Hannah has followed in her father’s footstep by joining the automotive industry and is a Dimensional Quality Assurance Inspector, with the job of checking her dad’s engine components!

Together they discuss their career journeys, sharing the exciting, high-paced nature of Formula One engineering and the role apprenticeships and practical skills have played in their career development. 

Steph also asks how we change perceptions of a career in engineering, especially for women and girls, and Hannah and Paul offer their own opinion on the topic.

00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction

01:17 Paul's Career Journey

05:07 Hannah's Career Path

09:21 Encouraging the Next Generation 

13:44 Challenges and Advice for Aspiring Engineers

18:02 Conclusion and Farewell

To share feedback, ideas or comments you can get in touch with the podcast at [email protected]

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In this episode Steph talks with Andrea Wilson, Managing Director of Hone All. 

Andrea sits on numerous committees and industry bodies and is a passionate campaigner, desperate to reshape the manufacturing industry so it flourishes. 

In this conversation she shares insights into the challenges and triumphs of running a specialist subcontract machining company, speaks honestly about the shortcomings of Further Education Colleges in providing relevant training for young people, and emphasises the dire need for governmental support tailored to SMEs. 

Andrea also tells us why she believes tax credits for training and development might help address the current skill gaps, and highlights the necessity for better support and ecosystem in vocational training. 

00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction

00:23 Overview of Hone All

00:51 Diverse Range of Products

01:31 Current Business Climate

02:21 Challenges in Skill Acquisition

03:44 Issues with Further Education

08:19 Proposed Solutions for Skill Development

14:37 The Importance of Vocational Training

17:15 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Get in touch with your comments, ideas and feedback at [email protected]

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In this episode of Steph on Skills, Steph returns to Harland & Wolff – the iconic Belfast shipyard – to chat with a dynamic group of apprentices carving out careers in welding and steelwork. The group includes people from vastly different backgrounds, ages, and life stages, each sharing their inspiring journey into engineering.

From rediscovering passions in their 30s to juggling parenting with training, the apprentices talk about the ups and downs, the skills they’ve learned, and the strong sense of community that powers their progress.

00:00 – Welcome Back to Harland & Wolff

01:00 – Meet Naomi: From Farming to Fabrication

02:30 – Meet Andole: The 17-Year-Old with Big Dreams

03:45 – Meet Dean: The Apprentice Dad

05:00 – Meet Lisa: From Milking Cows to Steelwork

06:30 – Building a Diverse, Supportive Culture

08:00 – Finding Belonging and Breaking Barriers

09:00 – Juggling Work, Study, and Parenting

10:15 – Why They Chose Apprenticeships

11:30 – What Skills Do You Really Need?

13:30 – The Power of Communication & Community

14:30 – Job Security and Career Opportunities

15:30 – Advice for Anyone at a Crossroads

16:30 – Ambitions: From Supervisor to CEO

17:45 – Final Thoughts and Farewell

Get in touch with the podcast with your comments, feedback and ideas via [email protected]

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In this episode of Steph on Skills powered by Enginuity, host Steph McGovern is joined by Kat Thorne, Head of Talent and Culture, and Brian Welsh, also known as Mr. Apprentice, from Harland & Wolff in Belfast. 

Broadcasting from the iconic Titanic Room, the discussion delves into the rich history of the shipyard, its cultural significance, and the community spirit that defines the workplace. 

Brian shares his personal journey from an apprentice in 1980 to a managerial role, explaining the importance of passing down skills to the new generation. 

Kat outlines recent developments, including a significant investment from Spanish shipbuilding company Navantia aimed at reviving and modernising the yard, with an emphasis on integration of new technologies, digital innovations, and advanced training programmes. 

They also discuss the company's focus on building new Navy vessels, the diverse career opportunities available, and the importance of fostering a supportive, family-like atmosphere for apprentices. 

00:00 Welcome to Steph on Skills

00:39 The Iconic History of Harland & Wolff

02:10 A Community Like No Other

02:39 Brian's Journey from Apprentice to Manager

04:34 Reviving Shipbuilding in Belfast

07:10 The Future of Shipbuilding: Innovation and Skills

08:41 Finding the Right Fit: Apprenticeship Stories

10:52 Qualifications and Attitude: What We Look For

11:49 Understanding the Roles: Speed Worker vs. Welder

12:43 Workplace Environment and Regeneration

13:37 Expanding Apprenticeships Beyond Technical Roles

14:30 Importance of People in Engineering

15:38 Innovative Training Methods

17:27 Defence Industry Opportunities

18:57 Changing Gender Dynamics in Trades

19:29 Personal Stories and Mentorship

21:15 Parental Role and Support

22:01 Conclusion and Next Episode Teaser

Get in touch with the podcast with your comments, feedback and ideas via [email protected]

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Steph on Skills landed the interview that everyone was clamouring to secure.

Minister for Skills, Baroness Jacqui Smith, unveils the Government’s new plan to rejuvenate skills provision and her desire to put some ‘oomph’ into her colleagues at Westminster.

Steph and the Minister, in a no holes barred 45-minute conversation, talk of their passion re-educate the media and politicians, on the importance of skilling people of all ages.

Jacqui Smith talks of the UK’s ‘hideous waste of talent’, with nearly a million young people not in education, employment or training and her wish to ensure that vocational training never retreats to the shadows of academia. 

Having taken time out from supporting Team UK, at the EuroSkill Finals in Herning, Denmark, the Minister tries her hand at live reporting and reveals that she has tried her hand at welding!

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In the first of three special episodes recorded on site in the Titanic Room at the historic shipbuilding firm, Harland and Wolff, in Belfast, host Steph McGovern is joined by guests Elita Frid and Susan Hayes Culleton to talk about their collaborative project, Engineering Across the Border and how it is tackling the skills crisis across Ireland. 

As Education and Industry Engagement Manager for MEGA (Manufacturing & Engineering Growth & Advancement) – a collaborative network in Northern Ireland, that promotes manufacturing and engineering as sources of high-value employment -  

Elita leads various educational initiatives to inspire careers in manufacturing and engineering, and she shares why she is so passionate about careers in STEM. 

Susan is CEO of Savvy Teens, an Irish business providing transition year work experiences for companies in Ireland. She is also the author of seven books, including five textbooks for teenagers, and a national radio presenter. 

Their initiative, funded by Inter Trade Ireland, connects schools with industry to provide hands-on experience in engineering and manufacturing. 

Together they discuss the importance of work experiences, structured support, and cross-border collaboration in preparing students for the workforce. 

The conversation also highlights the need for scalable models and broader industry participation to address skill mismatches in today's rapidly evolving job market.

00:00 Welcome to Steph on Skills

00:07 Meet Our Guests: Elita Frid and Susan Hayes Culleton

00:31 Elita's Journey in STEM Outreach

02:25 Susan's Passion for Skills Development

05:14 Engineering Across the Border: A Collaborative Project

07:56 Understanding the Education Systems

12:46 Impact and Future Goals

20:02 How to Get Involved

21:35 Conclusion and Contact Information

Get in touch with the podcast with your comments, feedback and ideas via [email protected]

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In this episode, Steph McGovern is joined by special guests and young learners to unveil ‘Vocational Celebration Day’ created and driven by Enginuity and EAL – the first of which will be held on August 6th 2026.

Newcastle College's Assistant Principal Catherine Orridge shares how the college is working to fulfil its goal to ‘unlock potential’ for anyone who wants to engage in their diverse range of courses and, alongside Al Parkes, Managing Director of EAL and a member of Enginuity’s Executive Leadership Team, they talk about the importance of celebrating vocational achievements. 

Mohammed Mahmood, who earned the title ‘Best of British’ at the Enginuity Skills Awards 2025, reveals his inspiring personal journey as an apprentice, and Alexia Williams, Technical Lead in the defence sector at Rolls-Royce, details why she is a passionate advocate for STEM apprenticeships.

Ben Blackledge, CEO, for WorldSkills UK also joins Steph to explain how the WorldSkills UK Centre of Excellence programme is changing the UK’s skills landscape. 

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In this episode, Steph welcomes Katy Davies, Managing Director of Cap Air Systems and co-founder of Citizen Hub. 

Katy shares her journey from accountant to manufacturing leader, offers insights into her multifaceted role in the manufacturing sector and discusses the formation and success of Citizen Hub, an innovative organisation designed to bridge the gap between job seekers and employers while offering skills training and career advice. 

Steph and Katy explore how the hub addresses the local skills gaps and the importance of community-driven employment solutions, including why we need more ‘angry lovers’ who care enough about these issues to take action. 

00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction

00:31 Overview of Cap Air Systems

01:32 Job Roles and Team Dynamics

03:36 Katy's Career Journey

06:48 The Birth of Citizen Hub

09:02 Challenges and Solutions in Employment

11:40 Citizen Hub's Evolution and Impact

12:55 Creating a Welcoming Environment

13:18 Partnerships and Collaborations

14:24 Community Support and Services

15:01 Engaging the Community

17:15 Impact and Success Stories

18:39 Expanding the Initiative

19:18 Replicating the Model

21:15 Addressing the Skills Gap

23:46 Empowering Local Communities

25:39 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Get in touch with the podcast with your comments, feedback and ideas via [email protected]

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In this episode of Steph on Skills powered by Enginuity, Steph is joined by Andrew Beresford and Joe Wilson, two of the experts involved in developing the 2nd generation of T-Levels qualifications.

Andrew is Technical Adviser, Building Services Engineering for EAL, whilst Joe is Head of Work Based Learning and VTQ Delivery at Educas and together they explain the purpose of T Levels and how they bridge the gap between purely academic and purely vocational education as well as the role they play in covering crucial pathways for the demand in the skills sector for Electrical, Plumbing & Heating, Gas, Air Conditioning & Refrigeration, Protection Systems and, from 2026, Low Carbon Heating.

Andrew and Joe talk about why T Levels are suitable for a wide range of learners as well as offering various exit routes such as university, work, or higher-level apprenticeships and share the importance of employer feedback in the process as the qualifications continue to develop.

The conversation also highlights how T Levels are preparing students for the industry with up-to-date skills and knowledge so that young people are ready for work from day one.

00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction

00:24 Backgrounds of the Guests

01:32 What are T Levels?

02:51 Generation One vs. Generation Two T Levels

03:34 Feedback and Improvements in T Levels

06:21 Who are T Levels For?

12:08 Employer Engagement and Real-World Experience

16:55 Keeping Up with Technological Changes

22:04 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Get in touch with the podcast with your comments, feedback and ideas via [email protected]

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